Borrelia miyamotoi infection refers to a type of illness
caused by the bacteria Borrelia miyamotoi carried by
ticks. In San Mateo County, the ticks that carry bacteria
that cause this illness are Ixodes pacificus, the
western black-legged tick. It is closely related to the
bacteria that causes tick-borne relapsing fever. The
infection is treatable with antibiotics. A person who has
been bitten by a tick and develops symptoms of Borrelia
miyamotoi infection should see their physician.
How is Borrelia miyamotoi infection transmitted?
Borrelia miyamotoi infection is transmitted by the bite
of an infected tick.
If I get bitten by a tick, will I get Borrelia miyamotoi
infection?
Most ticks are not carrying B. miyomotoi bacteria.
In 2016, Ixodes pacficus ticks collected from parks in
San Mateo County had an infection prevalence ranging from 2.0% to
0%. Checking for ticks after hiking or camping and
removing ticks promptly will reduce the risk of acquiring the
disease.
What are the signs and symptoms of Borrelia miyamotoi
infection?
